This study was performed to investigate the effect of chitosan and NOCC from different sources and of different molecular weights on lipid metabolism. Sprague-Dawley rats were blocked into 26 groups according to body weight, and were raised for 4 weeks. Cadmium chloride was given at the level of 0 or 400 ppm in diet. Various chitosan and NOCC sources were given at the level of 0%(w/w) of diet. Total serum cholesterol and serum triglyceride concentrations were little affected by chitosan and NOCC supplements. However, HDL-cholesterol concentration and HDL : total cholesterol ratio were increased , and liver lipid, cholesterol , and triglyceride concentration were decreased by chitosan and NOCC supplements. The cholesterol and lipid lowering activity depends on fiber sources(crab and shrimp); type (chitosan and NOCC); and molecular weight(low , medium , and high). Among cadmium-free groups, chitosan-fed groups showed greater activity than NOCC -fed groups in lowering cholesterol and lipid levels, and greater fecal excretion of lipids and bile acids. Crab chitosans were more effective in cholesterol and lipid lowering activity than shrimp chitosans. The group fed high molecular weight crab chitosan showed the highest fecal excretion of lipids and bile acids. This indicated that high molecular weight crab chitosan was most effective in interfering with cholesterol and lipid absorption.